Homemade Donuts with a Simple Refrigerated Dough

These refrigerated donuts are easy to make and can be stored for up to three days in the fridge. Simply punch down the dough, roll it out, and fry for a light and fluffy donut experience. Glaze or roll in cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs well beaten
7-7 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups warm water
3/4 cups vegetable oil
2 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, soften 1 tablespoon dry yeast in 2 1/2 cups warm water. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until the yeast is dissolved.
Mix dough: In a large bowl, add 3/4 cup sugar, 2 well-beaten eggs, 3/4 cup salad oil, 4 cups flour, and 2 1/2 teaspoons salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine, then beat for about 1 minute until smooth.
Add remaining flour: Gradually stir in the remaining 3-3 1/2 cups flour to form a soft dough. The dough will be sticky at this stage.
Refrigerate dough: Cover the dough tightly and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or until ready to use. The dough can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Prepare donuts: When ready to fry, punch the dough down and pinch off the amount you need. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick on a floured surface.
Let dough rise: Allow the dough to rise slightly while heating the oil.
Fry donuts: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan, 350 degrees. Fry the donuts until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Coat donuts: After frying, you can glaze the donuts or roll them in cinnamon sugar, depending on your preference.

Notes

Storage: The dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Make sure it’s tightly covered to prevent it from drying out.
Oil temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough to fry the donuts quickly without making them greasy. A temperature of about 350°F is ideal.
Glaze: You can glaze the donuts with a simple powdered sugar glaze, or roll them in cinnamon sugar for a classic flavor.